The New Scientist tells us that “Rhesus macaques have been shown to possess yet another numerical talent once thought unique to humans – they can simultaneously count audible beeps and dots on a computer screen.” Good to know, but can we stop experimenting on them, please?

Lewis Cicero of Fairfield, Connecticut faced either execution or declawing after scratching some of his human neighbors in 2006. His guardian Ruth demanded a trial on criminal charges. The case was just dismissed, as Lewis has kept out of trouble under house arrest.

In another giant step for I don’t know what, scientists are hoping to train fish to “catch” themselves. Because why do the harvesting, too, when you can confine your actions to killing and consuming? (At least then maybe there’d be no call for shows like this.)

And because I can’t handle any more depressing stuff today: Enter your film, poem, needlepoint, etc., in NAVS’ 19th Annual Art for Animals Classic. If your piece wins, it will grace National Anti-Vivisection Society materials (plus you’ll get some cash). Click here for the PDF entry form and rules, or call 800-888-NAVS (6287). The deadline is May 2.

Their slogan “Feel Your Falafel” gives me chilling thoughts of Bill O’Reilly, but the staff is friendly and the food is very good. The falafel itself is flavorful, tender, and well above average. After you get your sandwich, there’s a large selection of self-serve toppings – pickles, cucumber salad, roasted cauliflower, dairy and vegan coleslaws, carrots, baby eggplants dyed in beet juice (really), olives, several fresh hot sauces, and much more. The trick is they don’t leave very much spare room in your sandwich, so you can’t really load up on the condiments.

We’ve added Maoz to our restaurant guide. If you eat there, don’t forget to leave a review! (Oh, and if you’re wondering, the name “Maoz” is pronounced like the condiment, not the Chairman.)

Update: Or maybe it is pronounced like the Chairman. I’ve heard both with authority from staff.

In recent election results in the Netherlands a party by the name of Partij voor de Dieren (Party for the Animals) managed to gain 1.8% of the vote, and soon will have two seats in Parliament, the NY Times reports. Since its founding in 2002, the party has rapidly gained popularity, and is now making history as the first party (in the world) to campaign for animal rights as an official part of government!

Their website reads: “The party was founded to promote an awareness of the way in which humans treat animals and to emphasize that this needs to change – in the interest of not only the animals themselves, but also humans and the environment in which we all live.”